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Copyright, 1890, by M. B. Snow. 



PRESS OK 

FRANK H. SMITH, 

INniANAPOLIS. 



A UNisue coiNcipeNce 



A COMEDY 



IN TWO ACTS 



BY f 

J 

MARGARET BUTLER SNOW 




INDIANAPOLIS 

1890 








^Q tJ 



DRAMATIS PERSONAE. 



srr^- 



Frank Howe, 

Horace Marshall, 

Mr. Grey, 

Edith Howe, 

Esther Bradford, 

Laura Stone, 

Mrs. Willie Wilding, 

Ann, 



A Writer. 

His College Chum. 

(Not Classified.) 

Frank's Wife. 

Edith's Sister. 

Esther's Friend. 

A Pillar of Society. 

- A Maid. 



Place — An Island. 

Scene — Mr. Howe's Cottage on the Cliff. 

Time — August, 18 



The action is comprised within the space of three weeks. 



TMPSd-OObb^l 



/\ unique Qoir^cidepce. 



ACT I 



Scene. The piazza of Mr. Howe's cottage. Door at hack of stage, 
center. Piazza chairs, rugs, etc. ; tables covered with magazines, 
papers, etc. Frank and Edith discovered. Frayik lounges in 
a steamer chair; smokes. Edith arranges flowers, a quantity 
of which lie on a table before her. Holds up a vase, inspecting 
its effect. 

Edith. Could anything be more perfect ? That vase was made 
for that rose ! 

Frank. Most people would say the rose was made for the vase. 

Edith. The rose wasn't made, it grew ! and — 

Frank. Scientific, but not scriptural, my dear. 

Edith. — and if plants have brain power, (they certainly have 
as much as some people I know ! ) this rose has its full share 
of discretion. Look at it! Isn't it haughty ? Could any 
belle or de'butante be more vain ? I shall indulge its par- 
donable pride. I shall place it before a mirror, where it 
can admire its beauty all day long. 

Frank. And its punishment shall be swift. It shall soon see 
its petals wither and fall. 



4 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 

Edith. O how spiteful! It shall not, for I shall be careful to 
take it away before the least tiny leaf turns brown. {Dis- 
appears through door at back of stage, and is heard inside 
singing from " Yeomen of the Guard." Beappears ; begins to 
arrange another vase of flowers.) 

Frank. Your song was peculiarly appropriate. I was medita- 
ting upon an especial case of " doing and undoing " when 
you began to sing. You must be a medium. Come, tell 
me! Of what was I thinking? Or rather, of whom was 
I thinking? {Brandishes a letter ivith affected carelessness.) 

Edith. {Ignoring his question.) What magnificent flowers these 
are ! They are the finest we have had this summer. New- 
port can not usually spare so many. But Mr. G-rey sent 
for immense quantities for the german, to-night. He heard 
Esther say how impossibly nice it would be to have them 
for favors and of course ordered them at once. {Pause; 
she works busily.) If Esther should say she wanted Alad- 
din's lamp, it would arrive by express in the course of a 
week, nicely polished, with a neat bundle of extra wicks. 
He would like to give her the earth. 

Frank. Why does he hesitate? lie owns it, does he not? If 
it really does not belong to him, I have been laboring under 
a most humiliating delusion. He has the air of considering 
me a trespasser on his private grounds, when I am in his 
presence. Once or twice I have been on the point of apol- 
ogizing to him for being. But I didn't think he would 
accept my apolog3\ His manner always — discourages me. 
I don't like to feel — superfluous. 



^ 



A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 5 

Edith. You are too severe. Be charitable, be large, be high ! 
Consider how fleeting is this young man's glory. He is a 
senior now, a great man in his little world. But next year 
where will he be? He is in the foreground of the picture 
now, and his eye for the perspective is not quite accurate. 
I did a water-color once — my last — of a little boy standing 
in front of a high fence. Mr. Grey reminds me of that 
boy. He's too large. He dwarfs the landscape. But 
when he looks for himself a year from now, he won't be 
able to see himself without a microscope. 

Frank. I will arrange to spend my summer where he is, if I 
have to follow him to the sunny lands of the Orient, or 
Greenland's icy clime. I want to be there, when Grey 
" sees himself." I may not be " large," or " high," but I con- 
fess I have an overwhelming desire to be with him, {rises, 
walks to and fro, his thumbs in his vest pockets), when the 
universe and he assume their correct proportions. He will 
then behold me, {striking himself theatrically on his breast), 
as I am ! 

Edith. Proud moment! {Goes into the house with another vase 
of flowers.) 

Frank. {As she reappears.) But see here, Edith, your apparent 
lack of curiosity concerning this letter alarms me. I know 
what an eflbrt you are making. You will be ill if you 
keep this up too long. {Sits near her.) 

Edith. I haven't the slightest desire to know anything about it. 

Frank. Now I know some supernatural power is sustaining 
you. I have never seen you like this. 

Edith. Absurd ! 



6 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 

Fi^ank. Yes, it is absurd. You know you want me to read you 
this letter. Why don't you admit it ? Let me urge you. 
You understand, I don't wish to intrude, — if you are will- 
ing, — I would not not like to bore you, — {unfolds the letter), 
if you will graciously hear, — 

Edith. Stop your nonsense, Frank, and come to the point, — if 
there is one. One would think you had never received a 
letter before, you make such a fuss over this one ! What 
is the remarkable news it contains ? One of my unpaid 
bills, I suppose. They always excite you, unnecessarily. 

Frank. That is a base slander. But I won't stop to argue that 
now. This letter is from Horace Marshall. 

Edith. Frank ! [Folds her hands on the table and stares at him.) 

Frank. Yes. He is coming here. To see us. Soon. 

Edith. Well, as they say in Connecticut, I do give up ! 

Frank. I knew you would. But isn't it glorious news? I 
don't know of any one I would rather see than old Horace. 

Edith. But how is he ? What is the tone of his letter ? Grave 
or gay, lively or serene ? 

Frank. I can't quite make out. But that he is willing to come 
back to America is a good sign. It's a short letter ; I'll 
read it to you. 

" New York, August 3. 
Dear Frank : 

I got in to day. Town hot and disagreeable. 
Wired to your place and got your address. Think I will 
run down for a week or two. Get me rooms, and a place 
somewhere for Johnson, in your hotel, if you can. Kind- 



A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 7 

est regards to Mrs. Howe. I sball enjoy meeting her again, 
more than I can say. Hastily yours, 

H. E. Marshall." 
I think we can find him a room in our hotel, can't we ? 
Edith. Charming ! {Smiles, absently.) 

Frank. Your smile says " Esther" as plainly as your lips could. 
That witch ! She will soon make him think he has been a 
good deal of a fool in the last three years. This is just the 
place for him. Hearts mended. No fee. I will engage 
the fair Esther's services at once. 

Edith. Kow Frank ! don't you say one word to Esther. You 
know how provokingly contrary she is. If she sees that 
we want her to like him, she will snub him from the begin- 
ning. We will explain him to her, and lead her to think 
he -is a hopeless case, — which, by the way, T am inclined to 
do. That will arouse her interest, and — (she smiles again), 
0, 1 think we can certainly entertain him, with these lovely 
piazzas — 

Frank. And Esther, — 

Edith. — and the sea, — 

Frank. And Esther, — 

Edith. — and the moonlight, — 

Frank. And Esther, — 

Edith, —and the " Retreat," — 

Frank. And Esther ! I think we can do something for him, — 
kill him or cure him, as the doctors say. 



8 A UNIQUE COINCrDENCE. . 

{Enter Esther. She stands in the doorway, holding hack 
the porti^ere icith one hand, a parasol in the other. 
Dressed in white, with broad ichite hat.) 

Esther. Who is "he"? What is to he done for him? Can I help? 
{Advances to middle of the stage; sinks slowly into an easy chair. 
Takes off gloves.) What charitahle scheme are you under- 
taking now ? You two would he miserable if you could 
not be doing something for somebody. It is positively 
fatiguing to watch you. It is warm weather for good 
works, but, {shrugs her shoulders,) my conscience is still a 
little troublesome. I have not succeeded in subduing it 
completely. It is like Mrs. Willie Wilding. It refuses to 
be snubbed. Unfold 3'our scheme. May I be in it ? 

Frank. I think so. Yes, I may safely say you'll be in it, — very 
much in it. 

Edith. {Hastily.) We have just had a letter from Frank's old 
chum at Yale, a man I met when we were in Berlin. He 
is coming here to make us a visit. 

Esther. {Indifferently.) Ah, indeed I How interesting. Is this 
the scheme ? It strikes me that we are the beneficiaries, 
and he the benefactor. The prospect of having another 
man to cheer the scene is almost exciting. 

Frank. Ungrateful Essie ! What would Mr, Grey say, and all 
the noble army of martyrs who endure daily agony for thy 
sweet sake ? 

Esther. {Ignoring him.) When is he coming, Edith ? Soon ? 
To-day? For the german ? Xo. That would be asking 
too much of Fate. {Consults her watch, which hangs at her 



A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 9 

belt.) I am hungry. Even this delightful news cannot 
spoil my faithful appetite. Edith, may I ring for luncheon ? 
Let's have it here. 

Mith. Certainly, dear ; ring at once. I would have ordered 
it, but I was so interested in my flowers, and this news 
about Mr. Marshall. 

{Esther rings ; takes off her hat. Ann appears.) 

Esther. Serve luncheon out here, Ann. It is so warm inside. 
{To Edith) Marshall, did you say his name was ? 

Frank. Horace Marshall; one of the salt of the earth, too. 

Esther. {Musingly.) Horace Marshall. Now where have I 
heard that name ? It is certainly familiar. Who is he? 
What is he ? A returned missionary ? What is it we have 
to do for him ? 

Frank. {Laughs.) Well, in the strictest sense of the word, 
Horace Marshall is not an object of charity. He doesn't 
need money. He has too much now. What he wants is 
a mental tonic, a spiritual dose of quinine, so to speak. 
He has the blues. If he had to earn his living, he would 
not have time to be so minutely introspective. It is expen- 
sive to be introspective. It's a luxury. The poor can't 
aflbrd it. They haven't time to explore the inner recesses 
of their minds, with lanterns and geological implements. 
When they take time, they are socialists. {Ann sets the table.) 

Esther. I hesitate to cut short this interesting and instructive 
address, but curiosity impels me. May I venture to recall 
to you the subject of this discussion? A few facts would 
be an oasis in this desert of speculation. Who is Horace 
Marshall? 



10 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 

Edith. You have certainly heard us speak of him. "We saw 
quite a little of him, in Berlin. I was attracted to him at 
at once. He is perfectly devoted to Frank. 

Esther. That explains your admiration for him, but leaves me 
still in the dark. 

Edith. Didn't I write you about him? We were so interested 
in him and in his experience. He is very unusual, isn't he, 
Frank? (Esther gives a gesture of despair, and sits at luncheon 
table. Edith and Frank sit at table also. Exit Ann.) 

Frank. Undoubtedly. When I think of what Marshall was 
when he left college — brilliant, gay, fascinating, with a 
cloudless future forecast for him by every one who knew 
him, I can hardly realize that he is the same man. Why, 
he seemed to have the world in his fist — it was his oyster. 
All the gifts of the gods were his, — health, wealth, indus- 
try, ambition, keen mental powers, a magnetic ability to 
make and hold friends, — he had everything, by Jove ! He 
had such a quick grasp of things, that I am told he got 
hold of the law in a way that was phenomenal. 

Esther. ( Wildly.) Can I never pluck the heart out of this 
mystery ? What's the matter with the man ? What crime 
is he expiating ? 

Edith. {Laughing.) We have not been exactly specific in our 
explanations, have we ? We will begin at the beginning, 
and tell you all about him. 

Esther. One at a time, please. Your duets are apt to be con- 
fusing. [Pours chocolate.) 

Frank. Place aux daiuesl 



A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 11 

Edith. I first met Horace Marshall, as they say on the witness 
stand, the winter we spent in Berlin, after our marriage. 
Frank and I were too much interested in each other to 
spare much time or attention to any one else. But he in- 
terested us, in spite of ourselves. After Frank told me 
about him, I made efltorts to entertain him and make him 
feel at home with us. He was the most unhappy man I 
ever saw. I^othing seemed to rouse him. He had traveled 
everywhere, but didn't seem to remember much about the 
• places he had seen. Our happiness made me feel a little 
guilty, when he was with ns. Frank made fun of me for 
feeling so, but I couldn't help it. Men are so hard-hearted ! 

Esther. ( With resignation.) We have now been talking about 
this gentleman of whom I still know nothing, (looks at her 
watch), nearly fifteen minutes. This is discouraging! I 
retire from this struggle for information. He is the sub- 
stance of things hoped for, yet unseen. When he comes, 
he can explain himself, perhaps. 

Frank. Ko, give me a chance. Edith, eat your luncheon, and 
let me be historian. I will illustrate the dift'erence between 
the masculine and feminine mind, by going straight to the 
point. Pour me another cup of chocolate, Esther. Thanks. 
Kow this is the story of Horace Marshall. He was gradu- 
ated in my class, the most popular man in it, — on the base 
ball nine, in the glee club, and high in his stand. He 
studied law at Columbia, and through the infiuence of 
family friends, — he was an orphan at sixteen, — was made a 
junior partner in a ll^J'ew York firm. He had been there a 



12 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 

little over a year, and was making gigantic strides toward 
success, when suddenly be broke off' bis connection witb 
tbe firm, sailed for Europe, and bas been tbere ever since, 
wandering about, doing notbing, seeing notbing, — being 
as nearly notbing as sueb a man could be. And tbe cause 
of it all is a woman ! {Rises; ivalks up and down piazza.) 
It is inexplicable! incomprebensible ! [Lights a cigar.) I 
didn't know mucb about it. I was out west at tbe time, 
working bard to get engaged. After tbat, I was busy 
making myself agreeable; tben we were married, and went 
abroad. Wben I saw Marshall in Berlin, and found him 
so changed, I was shocked. Whoever tbe woman was, she 
is a heartless, unprincipled — 

Esther. ( Warmly.) How can you blame her, until you know 
all tbe facts? She may have suff'ered just as mucb as he. 

Frank. (Incredulously.) Hardly. But I can understand your 
position, Essie. You are speaking one word for this fair 
unknown, and two or three dozen for yourself! 

Esther. If a woman can't love a man, she can't, and there's 
the end of it. 

Frank. Yes, but unfortunately tbat is not always tbe " end of 
it." Sometimes she pretends she does, you know, and — 

Esther. {Impatiently rising.) 0, 1 am so tired of bearing about 
tbe hearts that women break ! We bear very little about 
the hearts men break ! Perhaps this very girl would say 
tbat Mr. Marshall bad jilted her. Who knows? At least 
give her the benefit of a doubt ! {Rings ; Ann enters, 
clears away table, etc.) 



A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 13 

Frank. What I can't understand, is, how he could let the effect 
of his disappointment be so disastrous. It is ruining his life. 
It is so inconsistent with what we all thought was his 
character. It is unmanly, and Marshall was manliness 
itself. It is weak, and he was strong. 

Edith. 1 think it reveals a fidelity as unique as it is beautiful. 
Such constancy is refreshing to see in these days of fickle- 
ness and change. When I began to know him, — Horace 
Marshall can't be learned in a day ! — I could understand 
what such an experience might have been to him. He has 
an intense, reserved nature. {Slowly.) I think to find 
himself beginning to forget, will be the keenest pain he 
has had to bear. I think he would rather remember for- 
ever. 

Frank. That shows how little you know about men ! I expect 
by this time he can hardly recollect her name. You see, it 
is eighteen months since we saw him. He may be engaged 
to another girl. However, we will not waste time in idle 
speculation. He will be here to-morrow probably, or at 
the latest the day after. 

Esther. {Meditatively) It is very interesting. I find myself 
rather pitying the " impossible she," whoever she was. 
She does not seem to have known pure gold — or at least 
did not value it sufficiently. {Takes her hat and parasol.) 
When does Sir Misanthrope arrive ? To-morrow, you 
think? 

Frank. Yes, and now we come to the conclusion of the pro- 
logue; the curtain is about to rise upon the play. The hero 



14 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 

is ou his way. The heroine awaits him. {Esther shrugs 
her shoulders. ) Two most indulgent chaperons are provided. 
The sea, the moon, the piazzas, and last hut not least, the 
"Retreat," with its tea and its hostess, are fitting accessories. 
{Edith signs him to stop. Esther leans over the back of a chair, 
staring at him.) l^ow can you he depended on to make the 
play entertaining ? Ko plot is necessary, you know. 
Plots are out of style. We must have plenty of light 
conversation, — 

Esther. You can supply that. 

Frank, i^ — on the topics of the day. And perhaps you could 
be persuaded to sprain your ankle; or, better yet, fall out 
of a boat, and let Marshall rescue you. That would be 
striking. We had better decide on that, and I will at once 
pick out a proper shallow spot for our purpose. 

Esther. Your style grows more involved every day. Presently 
clubs will be formed to study you. I shall not join. 

Frank. Let me explain myself. I can, and that's more than 
Browning could do for himself. We want distraction for 
Marshall. Will you undertake to distract him ? It would 
be no task for you. You will, won't you ? {Feigning 
anxiety.) Say 3'ou will. {Edith shakes her head at him; 
Esther turns to go. She stops in the door and looks at him over 
her shoulder.) 

Esther. I am always willing to exert myself for the benefit of 
humanity. {Smiles demurely.) If I do not find Mr. Mar- 
shall too — difficult, I may be able to — divert him. {Drops 
the partite behind her.) 



A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 15 

Frank. {Calling after her.) You would flirt with your great- 
grandfather, if no one else were convenient! 

Esther. (Putting her head out hetiueen the curtains.) Well, he 
would like it, wouldn't he ? 

Frank. I'm afraid he would ! {Exit Esther.) 

Edith. Now you've spoiled it all ! 

Frank. "Wait and see. {Exeunt at side.) 



Scene II. 

Enter Marshall. Wears traveling suit. Carries afield-glass in his 
hand, the case slung by a strap over his shoulder. Glances 
about piazza, puts case on table. 

Marshall. This must be the place. By Jove, I hope it is ! 
{Looks up at house.) It was from the window in that cor- 
ner tower, that I caught my fleeting glimpse of that face. 
What eyes ! with their deep thoughtful gaze ! What was 
she thinking of? Whom was she dreaming of, as she stood 
there gazing into space? How little she dreamed that my 
eyes were looking straight into hers ! I felt like a spy, as 
I looked into those great, serious eyes. She seemed so 
near me, I almost fancied I could hear her sigh. But only 
for an instant. {Sighs ; looks at his glass; holds it to his eyes 
an instant.) Faithful friend ! You have shown me many 
a picture, but none so beautiful as that. Would it were 
engraven on your lenses ! {Stops suddenly in his walk. Puts 



16 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 

his glass in case, shr'ugging his shoulders.) I am like a Sopho- 
more inanely raving over some young society bud. {Sighs 
again.) Wish I were ! How^ both long and short the years 
seem since I saw the ocean from these clifis the last time. 
The island has changed as much as I; — it couldn't have 
changed more. My heart doesn't give one extra beat, as I 
stand in the old familiar places, where once I stood with — 
her. (S7niles cynically.) We used to say this would be just 
the spot for a cottage, and I spent a great deal of time plan- 
ning it in imagination — for her. Here is a cottage, here 
am I. But where is she? I cannot say that I care to 
know ! ( Walks to door.) If this is Howe's place, — and it 
must be, — I shall see that girl again. Wonder who she is ! 
{Hunts for hell.) Wonder how you get in here. Seems to 
be an enchanted palace. I will play the part of the " fated 
fairy prince." That is so much in my line. I know the 
sleeping beauty is awake, though, for I saw her at the 
window. Confound it! I drivel on here, like a fool! Ah ! 
here's a bell. {Rings.) The spell is broken. {Looks about as 
he waits.) The most attractive piazza I ever saw. I always 
thought this the finest spot on the island. {Enter Ann.) 

Marshall. {Producing card.) Is this the residence of Mr. Howe ? 

Ann. It is, sir. 

Marshall. And are Mr. and Mrs. Howe in? 

Ann. They are. Will you walk in ? 

Marshall. No, I will wait here. {Exit Ann.) {Sits.) Nice 

little maid. Frank has a cosy place here. Lucky man ! 

Charming house, charming wife, — charming guest. Won- 



A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 17 

der who sbe is ! {Enter Frank, takes Marshall's hands, and 
holds them as he speaks.) 
Frank. Marshall, old man, it's good to see you ! Where did 
you drop from, and how did you happen to drop into 
exactly the right place ? We were going to meet you at 
the boat to-morrow, with a band and a bouquet. I needn't 
ask how you are. I^ever saw you looking better. Glad to 
get back ? 

Marshall. (Laughs.) One at a time, old boy ! I see you are 
the same impetuous individual you always were. To 
answer your questions in their order, I dropped from 
Newport about two hours ago. Inquired for you at the 
hotel, and was directed here. Imagine my state of mind ! 
I believe I asked for rooms in your hotel, or said something 
equally graceful. ( They laugh.) My mortification is severe. 
I am well. Kever better, and glad to get home. You look 
as if the world were treating you right. How is Mrs. 
Howe? 

Frank. Very well, thanks. She will be out in a moment. 
(They sit.) Will you smoke ? I am still a devotee. {Offers 
his case.) 

Marshall. So am I. {Takes a cigar.) You have a charming 
place here, Howe. There isn't a finer view than this in 
Europe! 

Frank. You approve, do you ? I think we have a very pleasant 
little place here. We live out here on the piazza. You 
get the view of the ocean from your window, too. 

Marshall. Oh, but — 



18 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 

Frank. Not a word! You're to come right to us. I have 
ah'eady seut over for your traps. You can't escape. 

Marshall. I doii't waut to ! but I fear I trespass. I didn't 
expect to find you living in such state, you know. 

Frank. We're delighted to capture you. But I haven't a bed 
for your man. This house is a hollow mockery. It looks 
very large, with its towers and gables. It's an imposing 
imposition. The rooms are all on this floor, opening out 
of a great hall, — the roomiest, breeziest place you can 
imagine. There are not many rooms. 

Marshall. But isn't there a room in that tower toward the 
ocean ? 

Frank. yes ! the little " Retreat," as we call it. The way 
we happened to have that room was this. The architect 
made up his mind that we must have a stairway. Ever 
had anything to do with an architect? {Marshall nods neg- 
atively.) Then you won't understand why we immediately 
resigned ourselves to the inevitable. We knew there was 
nothing for a stairway to lead to, but the architect said 
that made no dift'erence. He said stairways were his strong 
point. He could make them wind about in a most pictur- 
esquely vague fashion ; or if it ended in the roof, that would 
be an attractive architectural eccentricity. But we thought 
it would be too eccentric. Finally Mrs. Howe suggested 
having a tiny room in the tower, and that gave the stair- 
Avay, with its landings and seats, an excuse for being. It 
is a most demoralizing spot ! AYe have afternoon tea up 
there ; and there we have our novels and poems and candy, 



A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE, 19 

and otlaer reprehensible delights, such as euchre, or even 
poker, so depraved are we ! There is always a sea breeze 
in the hottest weather. But the main attraction is the 
goddess of the tea-pot. You should see her, Marshall! — 
{iJnter Udith.) 
Marshall. (Aside.) I have seen her ! (Advances to meet Edith.) 

Edith. It is a great pleasure to see 3^ou again, Mr. Marshall. 
(They shake hands .) And to have you with us! Just as 
we were thinking you had completely forgotten us, to have 
you appear, is charming. 

Marshall. Thank you very much, Mrs. Howe. As I have been 
telling Frank, when I found you were keeping house, I felt 
myself something of an intruder. Are you sure you have 
room for me ? 

Edith. Yes, indeed ! 

Frank. (His hand on Marshall's shoidder.) We would enlarge 
the house rather than let you go. 

Edith. We lead a most aimless, do-less life, Mr. Marshall ! We 
are lotos-eaters, here on the island. We have forgotten 
how to think, we are so lazy. 

Marshall. This is just the place for me, then ! I can't remem- 
ber when I began to forget how to think! (They laugh.) 

Enter Esther, dressed for walking ; adimnces slowly. 

Frank. Ah, Marshall, here is the other member of our Society 
for the Suppression of Thought. Our most successful 
member. Miss Bradford, Mr. Marshall. 



20 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 

Esther. I have no cue, so I do not in the least know what my 
brother is talking about, Mr. Marshall. But that makes 
no clifierence. I believe I prefer him when he is entirel^^ 
unintelligible. Conversation requires less efiort. {They all 
laugh.') 

Frank. You see we are all of one mind, — or rather of no 
mind. 

Esther. {Severely.) Yes, I'm sure Mr. Marshall sees that. 
Every one does. Will somebody be good enough to furnish 
me with a key to this discussion ? 

Edith. We were just telling Mr. Marshall that we are so lazy 
we've forgotten how to think, which jou must admit is 
true. 

Esther. Without hesitation. {To Marshall.) Do people think 
now? It is so long since I've seen any one who does, that 
1 rather fancied it was a by-gone fad. Why a real, sober, 
serious thought would embarrass me ! 

Marshall. And what is done with the time that used to be 
wasted in thinking? 

Esther. We dance, and walk, and row, and sing, and bowl, and 
frivol in various ways. The particular form of frivolity 
in which we indulge to-uight, is a german. And that 
reminds me, I must go over to the hotel. There are one or 
two arrangements left to me. This is to be an unusual 
event, Mr. Marshall. There are actually enough men to 
go round ! Such a thing has not happened in the memory 
of the oldest inhabitant. You will have all the pretty girls 



A UNIQUE COINOIDENCE. 21 

to lead out with, for I'm afraid we can get you no partner, 

so late as this. Of course you will dance ? 
Marshall. I — hardly know, Miss Bradford. I'm afraid I would 

not know what to do on the floor of a ball-room. I 

should like it, — 
Edith. Oh ! you are a member of the Frivolity Club now, Mr. 

Marshall. You must dance. We all do. 
Frank. {To Edith) You couldn't keep him away ! 

{Esther walks toward the door, Marshall loith her.) 

Marshall. Perhaps you would kindly consent to guide my fal- 
tering footsteps. Miss Bradford ? 

{Enter Mr. Grey, behind them. Esther turns hastily.) 

Esther. 0, Mr. Grey ! I was just starting. {Marshall and Grey 
glare at each other.) Mr. Grey, Mr. Marshall. {They shake 
hands, stiffly.) 

Frank and Edith. {Bowing.) Mr. Grey. 

Grey. {Bowing.) Mrs. Howe. Mr. Howe. 

Esther. It is decided then, Mr. Marshall, that you will dance 
to-night ? 

Marshall. I shall be charmed. Miss Bradford. 

Curtain. 



22 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 



ACT II. 

Scene. Hall of Mr. Howe's cottage. Frank and Edith discovered; 
Frank with neiosiJaper., smoking. Edith gives various touches 
to furniture^ bric-a-brac, etc. 

Frank. {Throwing newspaper aside.) Well, what do you think 
now, about Marshall's " unique constancy ? " Don't you 
think he is " beginning to forget ? " Do you really 
think he is likely to " remember forever ? " 1 think he is 
entertaining himself very successfully with the present, 
and letting the past severely alone. 

Edith. (Sits on arm of chair ; laughs.) I laugh every time I 
think of my surprise, tlie day he came. Did you ever see 
a man so changed ? I found myself on the point of ask- 
ing him several times when he recovered ; and once I was 
about to say, " You look so much better than you did 
when I saw you last, Mr. Marshall," but, fortunately, I re- 
frained. I can't get used to his cheerfulness. It seems to 
me he is playing a part all the time, he was so grave before. 
He is anything but grave now. {They laugh.) 

Frank. Esther doesn't seem to have had any difficulty in dis- 
tracting him. I consider him sufficiently silly. How he 
and Grey loathe each other! (Laughs.) It rejoices my 
soul to watch Grey, when Esther is with Marshall ! I am 
a-veng-ed ! (Melodramatically.) 



A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 23 

(Enter Esther and Marshall. He carries her parasol, and 
a bunch of flowers. They advance slowly.) 

Edith. Was there any mail ? 

[Marshall and Esther exchange glances. Smile, 
a trifle confused.) 

Esther. "We didn't go to the post-office. 

Frank. J^o ? Well, considering the fact that yon started with 
the express intention of going there, I am not surprised. 
If you had said you were going — over to the light-house, 
for example, I should have been sure of receiving my let- 
ters. May I ask where you did walk ? 

{They exchange glances and smile again.) 

Marshall. To the light-house. 

Frank. Indeed! 7 shall have no difficulty in getting to the 
post-office, I think. Are there any letters to post ? {Takes 
hat and stick.) 

Edith. 'No. {Frank and Edith ivalk to the door.) We are all too 
idle to write letters. {Aside.) If I have one from Laura 
Stone, don't give it to me before Esther. I don't want her 
to know that Laura is coming. 

Frank. Do you think it will be a pleasant surprise, {glances at 
Marshall and Esther significantly,) at this juncture? 

Edith. 0, Laura can take care of Mr. Grey. Poor man, he 
needs a consoler. {Exit Frank.) Is it warm out? 

Esther. {Absently.) 1 don't know,— oh ! rather ! {Re-enter Frank, 
in excitement.) 



24 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 

Frank. Hide me ! Put me in a closet, behind a screen, any- 
where ! Only let me not be visible ! Mrs. Willie Wilding 
is coming up the walk ! 

Chorus. Horrors ! 

Edith. Let us be calm. 

Frank. I am busy writing and cannot be disturbed, — if she 
remembers my existence, which is not likely. She doesn't 
approve of me. If she asks for me, tell her I am so sorry 
to m'iss seeing her ! {Waves his hand and disappears.) 

Esther. {Grossly.) I think I shall write a book. It insures 
such complete independence. When Frank doesn't want 
to be bored, he is engaged in his literary labors. When 
he wants to do some impossible thing, at some impossible 
time, relaxation is imperatively necessary. He is writing on 
the " History of National Idiosyncrasy." People who can 
understand the title, will no doubt enjoy the book. 
{Enter Ann, with cards.) 

Edith. { Taking cards.) Show her out here, Ann. ( To Marshall.) 
Fortify yourself. Be brave. 

{Enter Mrs. Wilding, dressed elaborately. Speaks with a 
pronounced English accent.) 

Mrs. Wilding. Good morning, Mrs. Howe. How do you do. 
Miss Bradford ? Charmed to find you. It is such a perfect 
morning. I said to my husband I was afraid I might miss 
you. I should have been desolated, you know! {Lays her 
hand on 3Irs. Ilowe^s arm.) A glimpse of your sweet home 
always refreshes me. Informality with congenial friends 
is so precious to me, Mrs. Howe. I said to my husband — 



A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 25 

Edith. {Interrupting her, and designating Marshall, who has turned 
away to hide his amusement?) Mrs. Wilding, let me present 
my friend and guest, Mr. Marshall. 

Marshall. {Bows.) Mrs. "Wilding. 

Mrs. Wilding. {Advancing with outstretched hand.) Mr. Marshall, 
do you not remember me? Do you not remenaber that 
summer three years ago, when life on the island was one 
round of pleasure ? I was Lizzie Walworth then. {Sighs.) 
How long ago it seems, does it not? 

{Edith looks at Esther. Esther has turned away.) 

Esther. {Aside.) Why did he not tell us he had been here 
before? {Listens) 

Marshall. {Embarrassed.) Of course I should have known 
you anywhere, Mrs. er — 

Mrs. Wilding. Wilding. 

Marshall. yes, stupid of me,— Wilding. Time has been very 
gallant in his attentions. 

Mrs. Wilding. {Simpers.) 0, thank you, thank you, Mr. 
Marshall. I am sure I can say the same to you. Do let 
us sit down, and have a chat over old times. Is it not very 
interesting to meet here again, after all these years ? 

Marshall. { Without enthusiasm.) Very. 

{They sit on sofa; Edith sits across the stage, Esther stands 

back of them, near the door. Listens intently.) 

Mrs. Wilding. When I saw you from the piazza, yesterday, I 

said to my husband, it seemed natural to see you here, but 

it did seem queer not to see Miss Stone with you. {Laughs.) 



26 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 

You've no idea how interested we all were in your flirta- 
tion, Mr. Marshall . We expected to receive cards before 
Christmas, I assure you. I was telling my husband about 
it yesterday. He said he thought you must be quite an 
adept. {Laughs again.) When did you come ? I just 
came down from the city, day before yesterday. Mr. Wild- 
ing could not get away before, and I would not leave him, 
you know. 

{Enter Mr. Grey. Esther starts violently.) 

Esther. Oh ! how you startled me! {Leans on back of a chair.) 

Grey. Did you think I was a burglar? I have never been so 
flattered. {All laugh excepting Esther. Grey adoayices.) 
Good morning, ladies. How do you do, Mr. Marshall ? 
( They shake hands without cordiality.) 

Mrs. Wilding. Mr. Marshall and I have been renewing ac- 
quaintance, Mr. Grey. We met here four summers ago. 

Grey. Ah, indeed? I did not know Mr. Marshall had been 
here before. Life must have been somewhat primitive on 
the island then, Mrs. Wilding. 

Mrs. Wilding. 0, it was so charmingly informal, don't you 
know ! There were no cottages, no turnouts, no yachts, 
no elaborate toilets. But we had such a jolly time, did we 
not, Mr. Marshall ? 

Marshall. {Aside.) Endurance will sooa cease to be a virtue ! 

Esther. {Comes forward; speaks rather haughtily.) It must have 
been rather disagreeable, I should think. I must confess I 
like the pomp and circumstance of society. I think there 
is quite enough informality here, now. 



A^UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 27 

Edith. Esther hasn't a trace of the Bohemienne about her. 

She is all Philistine. 
Grey. You perhaps prefer what might be called an informal 

formality, Miss Bradford ? 
Esther. {Smiling sweetly.) You put it most epigrammatically, 

Mr. Grey. {They walk aside together. Marshall stares at 

them blankly.) 

Mrs. Wilding. I must really tear myself away from this fasci- 
nating spot. Your house always makes me break the tenth 
commandment, Mrs. Howe. Is it not lovely, Mr. Marshall ? 
Do you remember — 

Marshall. {Desperately.) May I walk with you, Mrs. Wilding? 
I am going to the village. 

Mrs. Wilding. How fortunate ! Good morning, Mrs. Howe. 
{They shake hands.) I do so enjoy a visit with you ! Run 
in whenever you can. {Glances at Esther.) I hate to 
interrupt your sister. How popular she is ! Sweet girl ! 
I do not wonder, do you, Mr. Marshall ? Good-by, Miss 
Bradford. See you to-night at the hop, I suppose. Good 
morning, Mr, Grey. {Exit, followed by Edith and Marshall. 
He glances at Grey and Esther, as he disappears.) 

Grey. {Takes out two cards.) Then I may have the first two 
waltzes, and, {consults his card) let me see — the eighth, — and 
the tenth, and — may I be greedy and take the eleventh, too ? 
( Writes.) 

Esther. {Indifferently.) I suppose so. {Takes her card without 
looking at it. Folds it absently.) 



28 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 

Grey. Thanks very much. Will you dance the midnight 
german with me, Tuesday night? 

Esther. {Stares at him blankly.) ! oh yes ! When did you 
say? Tuesday night? Yes, I think so. What a creature 
Mrs. Wilding is ! 

Grey. Do jou think so? I rather like to hear her chatter on. 
She is harmless. 

Esther. {Icily.) Your taste and mine differ, radically. I dis- 
like harmless people, exceedingly. 

Grey. {Takes his hat.) Sorry I haven't a box of dynamite with 
me, Miss Bradford. As I unfortunately happen to be en- 
tirely harmless at the present moment, I will efface my- 
self with rapidity. {Laughs. Esther does not smile.) Good 
morning. {Stiffly.) 

Esther. Good morning. {Exit Grey. Esther sits, her hands 
clasped, staring before her.) Laura Stone ! So she is the girl 
that — How stupid of me not to remember ! I knew I had 
heard his name. I should think I had heard it often 
enough to remember it ! Well, of all the strange things ! 
{.Leans back.) What a mystery ! He was miserable ; she was 
miserable. How did it happen ? Why did he not come 
again ? Laura's aunt saw him. {Pauses.) I never liked 
her. {Starts up.) I must tell him ! But how can I, — 
710W ? It is too much, — Laura would not ask it ! He ought 
to know. Laura ought to know. {Covers her face with her 
hands.) But how can I tell him ? If I had only known, — 

{Enter Marshall. Esther turns as he advances.) 



A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 29 

Esther. Back so soon, Mr. Marshall ? I fancied you deep in 

the pleasures of reminiscence. 
Marshall. Spare me, Miss Bradford ! I have escaped. I left 
my captor with your friend, Mr. Grey. I thought you had 
forgotten my existence, when I lett. 
Esther. {Lightly.-) Ko, my memory is not so had as that, 
though it is faulty. It has just delivered up to me some- 
thing for which I have ransacked my brain for two weeks. 
I want to tell you a story, if you have the time and 
patience to hear it. It will interest you, I am sure. 
Marshall. Singular coincidence ! I want to tell you a story,— 

hut I am not so certain it will interest you. 
Esther. I must tell mine first. {Sits with her face turned from 

him.) 
Marshall. May I smoke ? I can listen better if I smoke. 
Esther. By all means smoke then. But do not be dismayed. 

I will be brief. 
Marshall. Let me beg of you not to be. This is so comforta- 
ble ! Your voice will poultice the wounds Mrs. Wilding's 
voice made upon my unhappy ears. {Lounges in an easy 
chair.) 
Esther. Once upon a time, to begin in the old way, there was 

a — summer, and a summer hotel, and a man, and a — 
Marshall. Summer girl. Charming ingredients. But,— I do 
not wish to appear critical,— they are to be found in all the 
receipt books of romance, are they not? 
Esther. Don't find fault with my materials, sir ! This is a true 



30 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 

story, and I must tell it, as — as it was told to me. This 
man and ^irl walked, rode, danced, and sailed together, all 
summer. There were other people present, but they were 
not disturbing elements. 

Marshall. Then this is not a true story. 

Esther. JSTothiug exactly — definite, was said of love, but as the 
weeks went by, the girl allowed herself to recognize the 
fact that she — cared for him, and she was certain he cared 
for her. She was unconventional enough to be frank with 
her soul, which is unusual, you know. Suddenly one day 
her — friend, was called away. He went without saying 
good-by to her, but he left her a note. 

Marshall. Ah ! {His cigar has gone out.') 

Esther. Not much of a note, but better than nothing. He 
told her he was summoned to the sick bed of an uncle ; he 
would see her in her home, as soon as he could. {Marshall 
rises; walks to and fro.) Six weeks went by and she heard 
nothing from him. One evening late in October, on com- 
ing home from a drive, she found his card. Her aunt said 
he had waited awhile but finally concluded he must go. 
He left no message. 

Marshall. {Standing still, at hack of stage.) No message ? 

Esther. Not a word. She expected him that night. She ex- 
pected him all the next day. She has never seen him since. 
At last, when she could bear her pain and humiliation no 
longer, alone, she told a friend. {Turns to him.) I am that 
friend, Mr. Marshall. Laura Stone is the dearest friend I 
have. Why did you do it? Why did you leave her? 



A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 31 

There has been some terrible mistake. (Pauses. Marshall 
does not move; stares before him.) When I heard your name, 
the clay Frank and Edith told me you were coming, I knew 
I had heard it before, but I could not remember where. 
(Pauses.') This morning when I heard Mrs. Wilding speak 
of you and — and — Laura, I remembered everything iu an 
instant. (Pauses.) Frank and Edith told me of — of your 
— unhappiness. I do not think I violate confidence un- 
worthily in telling you that Laura was unhappy. But now — 

Marshall. (Starting toward her.) ISTow? Esther! (Esther 
shrinks hack, covering her eyes with one hand. Marshall pauses 
an instant, then speaks slowly.) Esther, I had a story to tell 
you. I cannot tell it to you now. Perhaps I can never 
tell you. (Pauses.) I will tell you instead, the other half 
of the story you have told me. (Pause.) That man went 
away from the woman he loved, glowing with hope and 
happiness. He no more doubted her love for him, than his 
for her. (Esther sits. Marshall lualks to and fro.) He 
counted the hours until he finally stood at her door. She 
was not in, but her aunt entertained him while he waited, 
by informing him that Miss Stone was driving with the 
man to whom she was engaged. 

Esther. 0, wicked ! She did not think of any one but you. 

Marshall. He wrote on the back of his card, that he would 
wait at his hotel until the next night, and that a word 
would bring him to her. (Smiles bitterly.) You see he 
was an incredulous fool. (Pauses.) To this day, Esther, he 
does not like to remember the hours during: which he 



32 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 

waited for that message. It did not come. He went back 
to ITew York, sailed next day for France, and — you 
know the rest. 

Esther. Laura never saw your messa^^e. Poor ^irl ! How 
you were cheated out of your happiness ! She must know 
of this, Mr. Marshall. Think ! She has suffered, too. 

Marshall. I cannot think of her suffering. I have forgotten 
my own, — in this last two weeks. I wonder now, that I 
ever — 

Esther. {Hastily.) You must see her. You can explain, — 
everything will come right — {She turns away from him; he 
takes her hand, luhich she slowly loithdraws.) 

Marshall. Esther, you do not mean what you say ! You know — 

Esther. {Gently.) I know you will do what is right. 

Marshall. Do you bid me go to her ? 

Esther. {After a moment's silence.) Yes. 

{Enter Frank, Edith and Laura. Laura advances softly, 
and puts her hands over Esther's eyes. Does not recog- 
nize Marshall. He stares at her. Esther draws away 
Laura's hands, and looks back.) 

Esther. Laura ! {Laura kisses her.) 

Edith. Miss Stone, Mr. Marshall. {They stare at each other.) 

Curtain. 



A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 33 

Scene II. 

Scene, the same. One day elapses bettveen first and second scenes. 
Laura discovered writing. Lays down her pen, laughing. 

Laura. It is a trifle mortifying to tell your confideutial friend 
that you are in love with a man, and breaking your heart 
because he is not — reciprocal ; then be obliged to tell her, 
the next time you see her,that you are engaged — to another 
man ! True, several years have elapsed. But when you 
vowed you* would never, never, never forget, a year or two 
don't count. And Esther is so — exacting! She will not 
take into consideration the diversion of foreign travel. I 
could not write her! I thought I could tell her in some 
diplomatic fashion. But, oh dear! I wish now I had 
written her ! There don't seem to be any easy, — graceful 
way of putting it ! (Pauses.) And to find the man who 
was the cause of all the tears and sighs, the hero of the un- 
finished romance, right in the house with you ! It's as good 
as a play ! only I would rather watch it, than take one of 
the leading roles. I never cared much for theatricals. — 
But the best of it all is that they're in love with each other ! 
I'm almost sure. That will have a tendency to render Miss 
Esther lenient ! I fancy she will prefer to ignore the past. 
(Laughs.) There are subjects more entertaining to a girl 
than the old love affairs of her fiance'. It amused me to 
watch her, last night at the hop. I fancy she thought I 
was rather cheerful for an inconsolable. (Laughs.) The 
idea of my ever caring for Horace Marshall seems absurd 
now. When I think of Joe, I wonder what I ever saw in 



34 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 

any other man ! It is a decidedly piquant situation. I 
shall rather enjoy telling Horace Marshall I'm engaged. 
How fortunate it is that I am! It really might be a little 
awkward, if I were not. {Enter Marshall. Laura turns her 
head and nods gaily as he advances.) Ah, Mr. Marshall ! 
Your appearance is most ^a propos. I was just thinking of 
the gay times we had on the island, — let me see — what 
summer loas it ? Among so many gay summers, it is hard 
to tell which is which. 

Marshall. (Smiles.') Yes, the summers are piling up. But 
in my mind, some stand out distinctly. The summer you 
refer to is one of those I could never forget. It was three 
years ago, wasn't it? 

Laura. Oh, yes! So it was. How the island has changed, 
hasn't it? The improvement is astonishing. I looked 
around for some old landmark, yesterday, on my way up 
from the wharf, and really I don't think I saw one. The 
great wave still rolls in, down by the breakwater, but I 
can't think of anything else that hasn't changed. 

Marshall. You have changed very little, Miss Stone. 

Laura. How uncomplimentary ! I certainly should be very 
unwilling to think I had not changed — completely, in three 
years. I will be kinder to you. I think you greatly 
improved, — though it is hard to remember what one was, 
or what one's friends were, so long ago as four summers ! 
{Marshall turns his head away to hide a smile.) I rather dis- 
like to recollect how frivolous I was, in my salad days. 

Marshall. Now it's just the other way with me. I like to re- 



A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 35 

member my — inanity. By comparison, I am enabled to 
regard my present self with some degree of complacency. 
(Aside.) I rather fancy that balances our account, Miss 
Stone ! 

Laura. That is a recompense, isn't it ? You are something 
of a philosopher, Mr. Marshall. Well, the island certainly 
is a very attractive spot, isn't it ? It does not pale in com- 
parison with some of the vaunted resorts of Europe. I 
have just been writing to Mr. Hinton, painting the place 
in such glowing tints, that he will not be able to resist 
coming down, I am sure. But perhaps you do not know, 
Mr. Marshall, (loith affected shyness), that my engagement 
to Mr. Hinton has been announced ? We have been 
receiving congratulations for two weeks. 

Marshall. Then permit me to ofier mine, {l^hey shake hands.) 
I reserve my warmest for the fortunate Mr. Hinton. Can 
it be possible that it is " Joey" Hinton, as we used to call 
him, who was at Harvard while I was at Yale ? {Sits again.') 

Laura. Yes. Do you know him ? 

Marshall. Many a hard fight have we had on the base ball 
diamond Miss Stone, — and liked each other more at the 
end of every tussle ! I can congratulate you heartily. Joe 
is a prince of good fellows, — and has no equal as a short- 
stop ! That last qualification is, of course, very important. 
A man's training on the ball ground is of great service to 
him in the law. I've no doubt Hinton finds it as invalua- 
ble as I do. 

Laura. And can't I congratulate you, Mr. Marshall ? Surely 
you have not been idle all this time ? 



36 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 

Marshall. I'm afraid I haven't been as enterprising as I should. 
I have been dawdling about Europe in a most reprehensi- 
ble fashion. I shall make up for lost time, now. (Smiles. 
Laura rises, her writing materials in a portfolio, which she 
carries.) 

Laura. I see Esther coming, so if I run away to finish my let- 
ter, you will not be lonely. (Smiles rlrjnijicantly . Exit.) 

Marshall. <' Walks, hands in pockets.) That was clever. Very 
clever. (Laughs.) But I fancy Miss Stone would not have 
had so much fun with me, if she knew what I know. How 
did I happen to fall in love with her? She is attractive, 
but compared with Esther ! — 

(Enter Esther, somevjhat dejectedly. Stops as she sees Mar- 
shall. He advances to meet her.) 
I have been waiting for you, Miss Bradford. I have a 
great piece of news. 

(Esther sits on sofa. Holds a magazine, with which she 
plays somewhat nervously.) 

Esther. Religious, scientific, or political ? 

Marshall. Religious. That is, it concerns one of the holy 

sacraments of the church. Miss Stone is engaged to be 

married. 
Esther. Oh ! 

Marshall. Yes, I have had the felicity of congratulating her. 
It struck me when I first saw her, that there was no hope 
for me. She seemed so resigned to my — defection. I 
rather think she was congratulating herself upon her escape, 



A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. ' 37 

and singing hymns of praise to her star of destiny. I sing 
also, and give thanks. {A'p'proaehes sofa.) She wishes me 
to understand that she has forgotten that fragment of a 
romance. She says she doesn't like to remember how 
frivolous she was four summers ago. ( They laugh.') This 
is not flattering, but it makes me happier than any thing 
she could say. You see, Esther, (leans on sofa, just behind 
her) there is no reason now, why I should not tell you 
that story I spoke of yesterday, — if you will listen. 

Esther. Is it long ? 

Marshall. It has an elastic quality. It can be made either 
long or short. It is calculated to suit almost any taste. { 

Esther. I like short stories. 

Marshall. I will be exceeding brief. I — 

Esther. Is it a true story ? 

Marshall. Truth is no truer. 

Esther. (Per-versely.) 1 prefer fairy stories. 

Marshall. I seem to be unfortunate in my selection, but my 
stock of tales is not large. I will not urge you further. 
If you want to hear it, hold up your right hand. My time 
is limited. Please be prompt. {They laugh. Esther slowly 
raises her hand, which Marshall takes in both his, leaning near 
her.) 

Esther. (Hastily, looking up at him.) But, Horace, does Laura 
— know ? 

Marshall. (Nods negatively.) Has no suspicion. She seemed 
to have but a vague idea of me, (laughs), and I did not at- 
tempt to render myself distinct to her memory. 



38 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 

Esther. ( With a sigh of relief.) I am glad. Still, {anxiously)^ 
I think I did right to tell yon. 

Marshall. (Seriously.) Yes. I am glad you did. I am glad 
to know that Miss Stone is not what I thought her, a heart- 
less flirt. But you know she will always think I am ! 
How will you like that ? No woman likes to have it 
thought that her husband was a flirt. 

Esther. (Demurely.) I don't see that that has anything to do 
with me. 

Marshall. What duplicity ! 

Esther. (Taming to him again, suddenly.) But you haven't told 
me to whom Laura is engaged. It's queer . She hasn't 
said one word about it to me. Perhaps she is ashamed to. 
(Laughs.) Think of the sympathy I have been wasting ! 
Who is your usurper ? 

Marshall. Joe Hinton, of Providence. A good fellow, too. I 
know him well. 

Esther. Joe Hinton ? (Rises.) Well, this is too funny ! 

31arshall. Why, you don't mean to say he was one of your — 

Esther. (Nods affirmatively.) Isn't it the queerest thing ? 

Marshall. Queer enough to make the Fates themselves chuckle ! 
( They stand face to face, smiling at each other.) It's such a 
symmetrical joke ! When our engagement is announced, 
and Iliuton comes down here, nothing will be wanting to 
make the situation entertaining. 



A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 39 

{Enter Frank and Edith. They advance as Frank speaks. 
Marshall and Esther are laughing.) 

Frank. It isn't fair for you two to keep such a good thing all 
to yourselves. You are violating the most important 
by-law of the Frivolity Club. " No member allowed to 
hold personal property in the shape of jokes or puns. All 
such property to be held in common, the President of the 
club to be trustee." Divide ! 

Marshall. Curb yonr curiosity! Some day Esther (takes her 
hand,) will tell you. 

Frank and Edith. Oh ! {Come forward, Edith seizing Marshall's 
disengaged hand; Frank, Esther's, forming a line across stage.) 

Esther. In the meantime you must be content to know that 
we were discussing a strikingly 

" UNIQUE COINCIDENCE.'' 
Curtain. 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 




